As a prelude to the Academy Awards on Sunday, Uptown Magazine held a pre-Oscar gala celebrating “Women Directors in Television and Film.” Dee Rees, Gina Prince-Bythewood, Stella Meghie and Chandra Wilson were recognized for Their Outstanding Achievements in TV and Film.
Jurnee Smollette-Bell, DeWanda Wise, Denise Boutte, Tika Sumpter and actor Dorian Missick,“Extra” tv personality Tanika Ray, writer/producer Misha Green (“Underground”) were some of the many celebrities in attendance.
“For Black History Month, we are extremely excited to recognize the achievements of African American women who are trailblazers behind the lens and telling diverse, compelling stories as filmmakers,” said Len Burnett, co-CEO and chief revenue officer of Uptown Ventures Group. “Not only is it important to acknowledge the contributions of women in filmmaking, but we must advocate for their equality and empower them to make advances in the industry.”
In accepting their awards, each honoree acknowledged the impact of each other’s work, and a diligence to break the glass ceiling and continue to open the pathway for other women behind them.
Past honorees include Nia Long, Will Packer, Malcolm D. Lee, Lee Daniels, Ava DuVernay, Reggie and Warrington Hudlin.
By Samantha Ofole-Prince/Photos by Earl Gibson & Royalty Image
Leave a Reply